Hi!

Let me introduce myself; my name is Ellis, I am 16 years of age and have been interested in straight razor shaving for a few years.

I recently got my first straight razor. Of course being the eager teenager I am I used it as soon as possible. I do not own a strop as of yet but I have whetstones in which I can use to sharpen the blade. The razor came pre-sharpened and honed. I did my research online, about the form in holding the razor, shaving technique and etiquette; 30 degrees etc.

So I put a hot damp towel over my face, then creamed up (Actually used shaving foam like you would with disposable razors) using badger fur brush. I (being stupid) shaved my whole face, and throughout my endeavour, came across some strong tugging on my upper lip, chin and slightly on my sideburns. (Wasn't yet fully shaved) So I stopped for 30 minutes to see the outcome. All looked well so I carried on. Finished up the shave and noticed that my lip and chin were red. (I would assume due to the tugging and abrasions) but no cuts! So for that I am happy. I then used post shave balm for the sensitive skin, and I applied generously. After 2/3 hours the burn stopped but was still a dull red, almost not visible.

Is there any way in which I can go about next time rectifying it or is it just apart of the learning curve?

Look forward to hearing the replies, expect to hear regularly from me, I am very keen.

Many thanks!

-Ellis